Pupils still hungry after eating their school dinners

A REPORT has stated that some primary school pupils are still hungry after school lunches, with the Children’s Commissioner for Wales expressing concern that for some children this is the only hot meal they get. Commissioner, Keith Towler, said: “I recognise that times are tough on local authorities but we’re talking about a basic need here. Something is wrong with the system. For many of these children – due to their socio-economic background – this is the only hot meal they’ll get all day.

There’s been much discussion over recent years about how nutritious meals can really boost educational attainment – if we’re serious about improving educational outcomes for all children in Wales, then let’s start by getting the basics right for them.” Last year a BBC Wales survey was undertaken and found a number of councils had left the decision on extra servings either to the schools themselves or their caterers. A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We have produced statutory guidance for local authorities and governing bodies including a section on suggested portion sizes.

A school lunch should provide 30% of a learner’s estimated average energy requirement. Schools and local authorities have a legal duty to comply with the statutory guidance.” The Herald spoke exclusively with Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) to find out how they are making sure enough provision is being made for their local primary schools and their pupils’ nutritional needs. A spokesperson said: “Pembrokeshire County Council’s School Meals Service currently provides a Welsh Government compliant `Appetite for Life` primary menu.

The menu fully complies with both the nutritional and food based standards set out by the Welsh Government, ensuring every pupil within the County has access to a nutritionally balanced meal, with set portion sizes. The School Meals Service acknowledges the fact that the nutrient-based standards apply to an average school lunch over five consecutive days, and relates to overall provision rather than individual consumption. Also, some pupils need to eat more than others depending on body size, metabolism and physical activity.

For this reason, if surplus food is available, pupils are able to have additional portions on request”. The Herald asked if all primary school children receive the same sized food servings regardless of age? The spokesperson continued, saying: “The primary menu is a two course set menu with a vegetarian option. The nutritional standards set by the Welsh Government for Primary schools have been calculated using a percentage split across the range of 4 to 11 years of age. The School Meals Service adheres to these standards and the suggested portions sizes, as advised by the Welsh Government, and therefore currently provides the same-sized food servings for all primary school-aged children.

However, pupils are able to have additional portions on request. The size of the servings provided is the same for all Secondary School-aged children and is based on the Welsh Government’s suggested portion sizes. No complaints have been received in relation to this policy and therefore there are no imminent plans to review it”.